RJD to perform Chhat Puja in Mumbai on Nov 3, 4

Mumbai, May 12 (UNI) Defying Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray's challenge to North Indian leaders for performing 'Chhat Puja' here, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has announced that it will perform 'Chhat Puja' at Shivaji Park on November 3-4.

Speaking to reporters here today, RJD spokesman Manoj Thakur Singh said the party will perform Chhat Puja at Shivaji Park in front of Raj Thackeray's house, as he had dared party chief Lalu Prasad Yadav to perform the same in his bastion.

''We will be performing Chhat Puja at Shivaji Park on November 3 and 4, which will be attended by more than 2 lakh devotees and since we are praying to God, we do not need anyone's permission,'' said Mr Singh.

The RJD has sought permission from the Mumbai police commissioner, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and other agencies for performing Chhat Puja in November.

''We have applied for permission and if denied, we will file a writ in the Bombay High Court tomorrow,'' he added.

Mr Singh said the RJD does not want any law and order problems in the city and expects the same from other political parties, as they simply wish to offer prayers to the 'Sun God'.

Asked if the Chhat Puja was a show of their strength, Mr Singh replied ''if we show our strength, the Thackeray family will not have any place to run.'' Union Minister of Railways Lalu Prasad Yadav, opposition leader in Bihar Rabri Devi and many Union ministers are expected to participate in the Chhat Puja in November.

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